What Happened
Alex Ovechkin announced in a video posted by the Washington Capitals on Monday that this season will be his final one. The news sets up one last meeting with longtime rival Sidney Crosby when the Capitals face the Penguins on Wednesday night. Speaking to reporters after Monday's morning skate, Crosby said he has developed a friendship with Ovechkin over the years and has a ton of respect for him.
Key Details
- Ovechkin announced his retirement in a video posted by the Capitals on Monday.
- The Capitals and Penguins meet Wednesday night for the final Crosby-Ovechkin matchup.
- Crosby addressed Ovechkin's decision with reporters after Monday's morning skate.
- The two have faced off 100 times: 75 regular-season games and 25 playoff games.
- Their rivalry began in 2005-06, when both were rookies; Ovechkin won the Calder Trophy.
- Crosby has a 43-28-4 regular-season record against Ovechkin and won three of four playoff series.
What It Means
Crosby and Ovechkin entered the NHL in the same season and spent two decades as the league's defining stars, both in the Metropolitan Division, which made their meetings frequent in the regular season and playoffs. Ovechkin's planned retirement closes that era, and Wednesday's game gives the rivalry a scheduled final chapter.
What's Next
The Capitals and Penguins meet Wednesday night, the last scheduled matchup between Crosby and Ovechkin before Ovechkin's retirement takes effect at the end of the season.